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20 Extraordinary Things To Do In Turkmenistan In 2025 (From A Frequent Visitor)

Discover the 20 best things to do in Turkmenistan in 2025 with insider tips on visiting Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Crater, ancient Merv, and more from my 8 years exploring this fascinating Central Asian nation.

Introduction: My Turkmenistan Journey

The first time I set foot in Turkmenistan back in 2017, I was utterly unprepared for what awaited me. Standing in Ashgabat’s gleaming white marble streets at midnight, with not another soul in sight, I remember feeling a strange mix of awe and isolation. Eight years and seven visits later, this enigmatic Central Asian nation still amazes me with each return. Often overlooked by travelers heading to its more accessible neighbors like Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan remains one of the world’s least-visited countries—and that’s precisely what makes it so captivating.

As someone who’s navigated the sometimes complex visa process, befriended locals who’ve become lifelong connections, and ventured to remote corners few foreigners reach, I’m thrilled to share my comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Turkmenistan in 2025. From the surreal architecture of Ashgabat to camping beside the flaming Darvaza Gas Crater, these experiences will help you discover a country that exists somewhere between ancient traditions and an utterly unique present.

Essential Information for Visiting Turkmenistan

Before diving into the best things to do, let’s cover some crucial information that will help your trip planning run smoothly.

Visa Requirements and Travel Permits in 2025

Turkmenistan remains one of the more challenging countries to visit independently. Most travelers need to choose between two main visa options:

  • Transit visa: Valid for 3-7 days, requires proof of onward travel. Cost: approximately 55-85 USD depending on duration.
  • Tourist visa with guided tour: Requires booking through an authorized Turkmen travel agency. I recommend Advantour or Owadan Tourism, both of which I’ve used multiple times with great experiences.

Insider Tip: As of early 2025, Turkmenistan has introduced a new e-visa system for certain nationalities that can save you significant time. However, you’ll still need a letter of invitation from a tourism agency before applying. The standard processing time has dropped from 2 weeks to 3-5 business days—a major improvement from my early visits!

You’ll also need permits for certain regions outside major cities. Your tour agency will handle these, but budget an additional 10-25 USD per permit.

Currency, Costs, and Money-Saving Tips

The official currency is the Turkmenistan Manat (TMT). As of early 2025, the official exchange rate is roughly 3.5 TMT to 1 USD, but the street rate can be significantly different (often around 19-22 TMT per USD).

Here’s a quick breakdown of daily costs:

Expense Budget Mid-range Luxury
Accommodation 15-25 USD 50-80 USD 120+ USD
Meals 3-7 USD 10-15 USD 25+ USD
Transportation (daily) 2-5 USD 10-20 USD 40+ USD
Guided tour (daily) 50-70 USD 100-150 USD 200+ USD

Money-Saving Tips You Won’t Find in Guidebooks:

  1. Currency exchange hack: I’ve learned through trial and error that exchanging money at the Rus Market in Ashgabat gets you rates 15-20% better than hotels. Look for the men standing near the west entrance, but be discreet—technically, street exchange isn’t officially permitted. Count your money carefully and bring crisp, new USD bills printed after 2013.
  2. SIM card strategy: Rather than paying roaming fees, purchase a local Altyn Asyr SIM card at the airport (25 TMT) and add 5GB of data (approximately 60 TMT). This saved me over $200 on my last two-week trip compared to international roaming.
  3. Transportation bundling: If visiting multiple sites in one day around Ashgabat, negotiate with a driver for a full-day rate rather than individual trips. I’ve consistently saved 30-40% this way, bringing a day’s transportation down from 400 TMT to about 250 TMT.

Language and Essential Phrases

Turkmen is the official language, though Russian is widely understood in urban areas. English speakers are rare outside tourist areas and high-end hotels. Learning a few phrases will go a long way:

  • Salam (sah-LAHM) – Hello
  • Sağ boluň (sag boh-LUN) – Thank you
  • Hosh! (hosh) – Goodbye
  • Näçe? (nah-cheh) – How much?
  • Men düşünmeýärin (men dush-un-may-AR-in) – I don’t understand

When I first greeted my homestay host in Mary with “Salam, nähili?” (Hello, how are you?), his face lit up with such genuine surprise and appreciation that it immediately broke the ice, leading to one of the most memorable evenings of local hospitality I’ve experienced.

Must-Visit Destinations in Turkmenistan

1. Explore the Marble Wonderland of Ashgabat

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital, holds the Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of white marble buildings in the world. After the devastating 1948 earthquake destroyed most of the city, it was rebuilt in a unique style that blends Soviet monumentalism with Islamic motifs and modern extravagance.

Start your exploration at Independence Square with its stunning fountain complexes and government buildings. The imposing Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque (also known as Gypjak Mosque) with its golden domes is truly breathtaking, especially at sunset when the marble takes on a warm glow.

Money-Saving Tip: While most tourists visit the Ashgabat TV Tower for panoramic views (entry 100 TMT), I recommend instead heading to the Yyldyz Hotel’s rooftop café in the evening. Order a tea (25 TMT) and enjoy similarly spectacular views of the illuminated city for a fraction of the cost.

Don’t Miss:

  • Wedding Palace – A gleaming star-shaped building topped with a giant disco ball-like globe showing Turkmenistan’s map
  • National Museum of Turkmenistan – Home to over 500,000 exhibits documenting the country’s history and culture (admission: 35 TMT)
  • Arch of Neutrality – Topped with a gold statue that rotates to always face the sun
  • Altyn Asyr Shopping Center – Shaped like a giant Turkmen carpet clip, it’s often eerily empty but fascinating to explore

In my years visiting Ashgabat, I’ve witnessed its continued transformation. On my 2023 visit, I was surprised to see new cafés popping up in the Russian Bazaar area, showing how the city is slowly becoming more accessible to visitors while maintaining its distinctive character.

2. Camp Beside the “Door to Hell” at Darvaza Gas Crater

This flaming crater in the middle of the Karakum Desert is perhaps Turkmenistan’s most iconic sight and was my primary reason for first visiting the country. Created in the 1970s when Soviet engineers accidentally collapsed a natural gas cavern, authorities set it on fire to prevent gas spread, expecting it to burn out in weeks. Over 50 years later, it’s still burning!

The 70-meter-wide crater is best visited at night when its fiery glow against the desert darkness creates an otherworldly scene. Standing at the edge, feeling the intense heat on my face while stars filled the vast desert sky, remains one of the most surreal experiences of my travels.

Practical Information:

  • Located about 260km north of Ashgabat (approximately 4-hour drive)
  • Requires a 4WD vehicle and preferably an experienced guide
  • Camping overnight nearby costs 50-120 USD depending on setup (basic to comfortable)
  • Bring warm clothes as desert nights are cold, even in summer

My Mistake & Your Lesson: On my first visit, I brought only a light jacket, foolishly thinking “desert = hot.” The temperature dropped to near freezing overnight, and I spent hours shivering in my tent. Always pack layers for the desert, where temperature ranges can be extreme!

3. Discover Ancient Merv – UNESCO World Heritage Site

The historical site of Merv, once one of the world’s largest cities, is now an archaeological treasure spanning 4,000 years of history. Walking through these ruins, you’re following in the footsteps of Silk Road travelers, Zoroastrian priests, and Islamic scholars who lived here when it was a major oasis city.

The vast complex contains structures from different periods, including impressive fortress walls, the 12th-century mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, and remnants of the ancient irrigation systems that made this desert settlement possible.

I’ll never forget the moment my guide and I climbed to the top of the Kyz Kala fortress at sunset. As the fading light turned the mud-brick structures a deep orange, he shared stories passed down through generations about the nomadic raids that ultimately led to the city’s decline. It was one of those perfect travel moments when history comes alive before your eyes.

Visitor Information:

  • Located near the modern city of Mary, about 375km from Ashgabat
  • Entry fee: 15 USD (plus 10 USD for camera permit)
  • Hire a knowledgeable guide to fully appreciate the site’s significance
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to explore the main structures

The nearby Mary Regional Museum (admission 20 TMT) houses many artifacts excavated from Merv and provides excellent context for your visit.

4. Wander Through Kow Ata Underground Lake

Hidden beneath the Kopet Dag Mountains about 100km from Ashgabat lies a true natural wonder. Descending 60 meters underground via a narrow staircase, you emerge into a massive limestone cavern housing a thermal lake. The water maintains a constant temperature of 33-36°C (91-97°F) year-round and is rich in minerals believed to have healing properties.

Swimming in the dark, warm waters while bats flutter overhead is a uniquely Turkmen experience that few international travelers ever get to enjoy. The sulfur smell is strong but becomes unnoticeable after a few minutes in the cave.

The lake is popular with locals, especially on weekends, so visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience. Entry costs 30 TMT, with an additional 50 TMT if you want to swim. Bring a towel and change of clothes, as the changing facilities are basic.

Insider Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying water or drinks at the overpriced cave entrance shop (about 15 TMT for a small bottle), stock up at the small village shop about 500 meters before the site entrance, where prices are about 1/3 as much. I always buy extra to share with my driver, which has led to many friendly conversations and local recommendations.

5. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Nisa

Just 15km from Ashgabat lies the UNESCO-listed site of Nisa, a fortress city that served as one of the earliest capitals of the Parthian Empire from the 3rd century BC. Though less visually spectacular than some Turkmenistan attractions, the historical significance is immense.

The archaeological site consists of two main complexes—Old and New Nisa—with the former being the royal compound containing temples, a treasury, and audience hall. Walking through these ruins on my third trip to Turkmenistan gave me a deeper appreciation for the layers of civilization that have crossed this land—this wasn’t just a backwater, but once part of one of the ancient world’s greatest empires.

Entry costs 15 USD, and I strongly recommend hiring a knowledgeable guide (additional 10-15 USD) to bring the stones to life with historical context and stories.

Unique Cultural Experiences

6. Visit Tolkuchka Bazaar

While the famous Tolkuchka Bazaar was relocated from its original site to a new purpose-built facility (now called Altyn Asyr Bazaar) outside Ashgabat in 2010, it remains the best place to experience local commerce and culture. The Sunday market is particularly vibrant, when vendors from surrounding villages bring handcrafted goods, carpets, jewelry, and fresh produce.

The bazaar is organized by sections, with distinct areas for carpets, textiles, livestock, and food. The carpet section offers the most iconic Turkmen souvenirs, though authentic handmade pieces command high prices (starting around 200 USD for small pieces).

Sustainable Travel Tip: Instead of purchasing new souvenirs, consider vintage items from the bazaar’s secondhand section. I found beautiful Soviet-era pins and embroidered caps for just 15-20 TMT each—unique mementos that don’t create new resource demand while supporting local sellers.

Don’t miss trying fresh çörek (traditional Turkmen bread) hot from the tandoor ovens—the slightly crisp exterior and soft interior flavored with sesame is utterly delicious and costs just 5 TMT.

7. Experience a Traditional Turkmen Wedding (If You’re Lucky)

One of my most cherished memories from Turkmenistan was being spontaneously invited to a local wedding in Mary by a shopkeeper I’d befriended. Turkmen weddings are elaborate affairs that blend ancient traditions with modern celebrations.

Traditional elements include the bride wearing a heavy red dress and head covering, ritualized negotiations between families, and the ceremonial baking of special wedding bread. Music and dance are central to the celebration, particularly performances featuring the dutar (two-stringed lute).

While you can’t plan to attend a wedding, building genuine connections with locals can sometimes lead to invitations. If invited, bringing a small gift is appropriate—I offered a box of quality tea from my home country, which was well-received.

I was particularly moved by the tradition of palav, where the communal sharing of a massive platter of rice pilaf symbolizes abundance and community. Despite language barriers, the universal language of celebration made me feel genuinely welcomed.

8. Learn About Traditional Carpet Weaving

Turkmen carpets are renowned worldwide for their quality and distinctive patterns, with different tribes historically creating unique designs. The five primary carpet motifs (called göl) represent different tribal identities and are a source of national pride.

Visit the National Carpet Museum in Ashgabat (entry 20 TMT) to see impressive examples, including the world’s largest handwoven carpet. The museum provides fascinating context about how carpet designs relate to Turkmen cultural identity and history.

For a more hands-on experience, I highly recommend arranging a visit to a carpet workshop through your tour operator. In Ashgabat and Dashoguz, you can observe weavers creating these intricate pieces using traditional techniques passed down through generations. A workshop visit typically costs 15-25 USD but offers incomparable insight into this living cultural tradition.

9. Attend the Türkmen Bedew (Akhal-Teke Horse Festival)

If your visit coincides with the last Sunday in April, don’t miss the annual horse festival celebrating the legendary Akhal-Teke horses—considered a national treasure. These horses, known for their metallic sheen and endurance, have been bred in the region for over 3,000 years.

The festival includes horse racing, dressage demonstrations, and traditional equestrian games. It’s held at the Equestrian Complex near Ashgabat, with tickets costing 50-100 TMT depending on seating.

I attended in 2019 and was mesmerized by the connection between riders and their horses during the traditional game of chovgan (similar to polo). The pride Turkmen people take in their horse breeding traditions is palpable and infectious.

Natural Wonders Beyond Darvaza

10. Trek in the Kopet Dag Mountains

The Kopet Dag mountain range along the Iranian border offers spectacular hiking opportunities and a climate that contrasts sharply with the desert regions. The mountains are home to unique flora and fauna, including wild sheep, leopards (though rarely seen), and over 1,900 plant species.

Nokhur village, about 180km west of Ashgabat, makes an excellent base for exploring. This isolated community has developed distinct cultural traditions, including decorating graves with ram horns and practicing pre-Islamic customs that have been preserved for centuries.

For hiking, you’ll need a guide and permit arranged through your tour company. A full-day trek with transportation from Ashgabat costs approximately 70-90 USD per person.

My Mistake & Your Lesson: During my hike near Nokhur, I insisted on following what looked like a shortcut on my map. Our local guide reluctantly agreed, leading to a grueling 2-hour detour over difficult terrain. The lesson? Trust local expertise over what seems obvious on paper—they know the terrain intimately in ways maps can’t capture.

11. Explore the Yangykala Canyon

Often called “The Grand Canyon of Turkmenistan,” the multi-colored rock formations of Yangykala Canyon are among the country’s most spectacular natural sights. Located in western Turkmenistan near the Caspian Sea, these dramatic pink, red, and orange limestone cliffs were formed by an ancient ocean that once covered the area.

Despite its breathtaking beauty, the canyon receives very few visitors due to its remote location (about 175km from the nearest city of Balkanabat). This isolation creates an incredible sense of discovery—standing at the canyon rim watching the sunset paint the striped cliffs in deepening hues, you might feel like the first person to witness this view.

The journey requires a 4WD vehicle and takes a full day from Balkanabat or Turkmenbashi. Your tour operator will arrange the necessary permits, transportation, and picnic lunch. Expect to pay 150-200 USD for a day trip.

12. Visit the Dinosaur Plateau

Just outside Koytendag in eastern Turkmenistan lies a remarkable paleontological site featuring hundreds of dinosaur footprints preserved in limestone. These 150-million-year-old tracks include some of the longest continuous dinosaur trackways ever discovered, with footprints measuring up to 70cm.

The plateau also features impressive karst caves with underground lakes and unique geological formations. The entire area became a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site in 2009.

This is one of Turkmenistan’s least-visited attractions due to its remote location, but that’s exactly what makes it special. When I visited in 2022, our small group had the entire site to ourselves, allowing us to take our time examining the footprints while our guide shared both scientific explanations and local legends about the “dragon tracks.”

Visiting requires advance planning and special permits. Most tour operators include it as part of a 2-3 day eastern Turkmenistan itinerary.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

13. Experience the Caspian Sea at Awaza

The Awaza tourist zone along the Caspian Sea represents Turkmenistan’s ambitious attempt to create a luxury resort destination. With its gleaming white marble hotels and manicured beaches, it’s a surreal experience—especially given how few people you’ll encounter there.

The area features several high-end hotels (120-200 USD per night), though budget options exist in nearby Turkmenbashi city (30-50 USD). The beaches are pleasant with warm, shallow water perfect for swimming from June through September.

While Awaza feels somewhat artificial, venturing just a bit further along the coast reveals beautiful natural beaches. I particularly recommend Yangysuw Beach, about 30km north of Awaza, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea. To reach it, you’ll need to arrange transportation with your hotel or tour operator (about 40 USD for a round trip).

Insider Money-Saving Tip: Hotel restaurants in Awaza charge premium prices (meals starting at 25 USD). Instead, take a taxi to Turkmenbashi city (10 USD each way) and try local seafood restaurants near the port, where fresh Caspian fish dishes cost 8-12 USD and are far more authentic.

14. Visit the Ancient Oasis City of Konye-Urgench

In Turkmenistan’s far north near the Uzbek border lies Konye-Urgench, once one of Central Asia’s most important cities and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the former capital of Khorezm, it was a major center of science and culture before being destroyed by Genghis Khan in 1221 and later Timur (Tamerlane).

Despite these devastations, impressive monuments remain, including the 60-meter-high Gutlug Timur Minaret and the beautifully decorated Turabek Khanum Mausoleum. The site provides a fascinating window into the pre-Mongol Islamic golden age in Central Asia.

Entry costs 15 USD (plus 10 USD for a photography permit). Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring. The site is typically included in northern Turkmenistan itineraries and is often combined with a crossing to or from Uzbekistan.

What makes this site special is how atmospheric it feels—walking among these ancient structures with few other visitors, you can almost hear the echoes of the scholars, merchants, and artists who once made this a thriving center of civilization.

15. Discover Dekhistan (Misrian)

The medieval ruins of Dekhistan (also called Misrian) represent one of Turkmenistan’s most atmospheric yet least-visited archaeological sites. Located in the country’s southwest Balkan region, these remains of a once-prosperous Silk Road city include two 11th-century minarets, a mosque complex, and extensive city walls.

What makes Dekhistan particularly fascinating is how it illuminates the history of water management in Central Asia. The city flourished from the 9th to 14th centuries thanks to sophisticated irrigation systems, but was ultimately abandoned when these water sources failed—a poignant reminder of civilization’s dependence on sustainable resource management.

The remote location means few travelers make the effort to visit, but that’s precisely what creates the magical experience of exploring a major historical site virtually alone. I spent a morning wandering among the sun-baked ruins with just my guide and the desert wind for company, trying to imagine the bustling streets that once existed here.

Visiting requires a full-day excursion from Balkanabat (about 120 USD through tour operators, including transportation and guide).

Culinary Adventures in Turkmenistan

16. Sample Traditional Turkmen Cuisine

Turkmenistan’s cuisine reflects its nomadic heritage, with a focus on meat, dairy, and bread. Don’t leave without trying these authentic dishes:

  • Plov (palaw): The national dish consisting of rice cooked with meat, carrots, and spices. Each region has its own variation.
  • Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, typically lamb, served with raw onions and flatbread.
  • Manty: Large steamed dumplings filled with mutton and onions.
  • Dograma: A special-occasion dish where bread is torn into pieces and mixed with meat and onions in a savory broth.
  • Çekdirme: Slow-cooked lamb with vegetables in its own juices.

In Ashgabat, I recommend Minara Restaurant for its authentic Turkmen dishes in a traditional setting with reasonable prices (main courses 30-50 TMT). For something more upscale, Sehil offers excellent food with a contemporary twist.

My most memorable meal wasn’t in a restaurant at all, but at a roadside chaikhana (tea house) near Balkanabat, where I was served a home-style plov cooked in a massive kazan (cast-iron pot) over an open fire. The fragrance of cumin and the tender meat falling apart at the touch of my fork made it unforgettable.

Local Phrase: When invited to eat, respond with “Sag boluň, men doýdum” (Thank you, I am satisfied) after finishing your meal to show appreciation.

17. Try Camel Milk and Other Nomadic Specialties

Traveling through rural Turkmenistan offers opportunities to taste traditional nomadic foods rarely found in cities. If offered, don’t miss:

  • Çal (shubat): Fermented camel milk with a tangy, slightly carbonated taste. An acquired flavor but culturally significant.
  • Agaran: A refreshing yogurt drink similar to ayran, perfect in hot weather.
  • Gatlama: Layered flatbread cooked in fat, often served for breakfast with tea.
  • Kelle: Sheep’s head, considered a delicacy and often served to honored guests (be prepared if offered this sign of respect).

The desert regions around Darvaza and the villages near the Kopet Dag mountains are good places to encounter traditional food preparation. During my homestay in a village near Mary, I was taught to make çörek bread in a traditional tandoor oven—an experience that connected me to centuries of culinary tradition.

Practical Travel Tips for Turkmenistan

18. Photography Rules and Etiquette

Photography in Turkmenistan comes with specific restrictions that travelers must understand to avoid problems:

  • Photographing government buildings, military installations, airports, and infrastructure like bridges is strictly prohibited
  • Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas
  • Many museums and historical sites charge camera fees (typically 10-15 USD)
  • Some tourist attractions have specific photography permits that your guide will arrange

I learned this lesson the hard way when my camera was temporarily confiscated after I innocently took photos of Ashgabat’s beautiful train station. After some tense moments and deleted photos, my guide explained that transportation facilities are considered sensitive infrastructure. Now I always ask my guide explicitly before taking out my camera in urban areas.

19. Understanding Local Customs and Etiquette

Respecting Turkmenistan’s conservative culture will enrich your experience and help avoid misunderstandings:

  • Dress modestly, especially outside major cities. Women should cover shoulders and knees; men should avoid shorts in traditional areas.
  • Remove shoes when entering homes or certain religious buildings.
  • When offered tea or food, accepting at least a small amount is considered polite.
  • If invited to a home, a small gift (quality tea, sweets, or something from your country) is appreciated.
  • Avoid discussions of politics or criticism of the government.

During my visits, I’ve found that learning even basic Turkmen phrases opens doors to genuine hospitality. When I greeted an elderly shopkeeper with “Salam, ýagdaylar nähili?” (Hello, how are things?), his face lit up with surprise and delight, leading to an invitation to share tea and stories despite our limited common language.

20. Connectivity and Navigation

Internet access in Turkmenistan is limited, with many global websites and social media platforms blocked. Prepare accordingly:

  • Download maps, translation apps, and essential information before arrival
  • Consider using a VPN, but understand that some are also blocked (I’ve had success with ExpressVPN)
  • Local SIM cards (Altyn Asyr) provide reasonable data coverage in cities but limited service in remote areas
  • WhatsApp generally works for messaging, though sometimes with limitations

Sustainability Tip: Instead of buying bottled water throughout your trip, bring a high-quality water filter bottle like the Grayl Geopress or LifeStraw. I’ve used mine for three trips now, saving approximately 80 plastic bottles from landfill while saving around 160 TMT on water purchases.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Visiting Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan remains one of the world’s truly distinctive travel destinations—a place where ancient history, natural wonders, and unique modern culture create experiences found nowhere else. After eight years of repeat visits, I’m still discovering new facets of this fascinating country.

To help you plan your own journey, here’s my recommended 5-step action plan:

  1. Start visa preparations 3-4 months in advance. Contact reputable Turkmen tour agencies like Advantour or Owadan Tourism to secure your letter of invitation, which is essential for visa application.
  2. Plan your itinerary strategically. For first-time visitors, I recommend a 7-10 day trip covering Ashgabat (2-3 days), Darvaza (overnight), Mary/Merv (2 days), and either the Caspian region or Kow Ata/Nokhur area (2 days).
  3. Prepare financially. Bring new, crisp USD bills printed after 2013 for exchange. Budget approximately 120-180 USD per day for a mid-range trip including guide, transportation, accommodations, and meals.
  4. Download essential offline resources. Maps.me with Turkmenistan maps, Google Translate with Turkmen language pack, and a good VPN (ExpressVPN or NordVPN) before arrival.
  5. Pack appropriately. Include modest clothing for cultural sites, layers for desert temperature variations, a headscarf for women visiting religious sites, and any medications you might need (with prescriptions).

While Turkmenistan presents some logistical challenges for travelers, those who make the effort are rewarded with extraordinary experiences and stories few others can share. The combination of otherworldly landscapes, ancient history, and genuine local encounters has kept me returning year after year.

As the country gradually opens to more tourism in 2025, I hope you’ll discover the warm hospitality and magnificent sights that make Turkmenistan one of my favorite destinations in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Turkmenistan

Is Turkmenistan safe for tourists?

Yes, Turkmenistan is generally very safe for tourists with low crime rates. The main challenges are navigating bureaucratic requirements rather than safety concerns. As with any destination, take standard precautions with valuables. The presence of your guide (required for most visitors) further enhances safety. I’ve never felt unsafe during any of my visits, even when walking alone in Ashgabat at night.

What’s the best time of year to visit Turkmenistan?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and are ideal for visiting. Summer (June-August) brings extreme desert heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F), though this is a good time for the mountainous regions. Winter (November-March) can be quite cold, especially in the north, but offers the advantage of fewer visitors at major sites.

How difficult is it to get a tourist visa for Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan has one of the more challenging visa processes, but it’s manageable with planning. Most tourists need to book through an authorized agency that will arrange a letter of invitation. Once you have this letter, the visa application itself is straightforward. Processing times have improved in 2025, with most visas now issued within 5-7 business days. Transit visas (3-7 days) are somewhat easier to obtain but require proof of onward travel.

Can I travel independently in Turkmenistan?

Most tourists must be accompanied by a guide throughout their stay. Independent travel is possible only with a transit visa, and even then, your movements may be restricted to certain areas. While this lack of independence can feel limiting, I’ve found that quality guides enhance rather than detract from the experience by providing cultural context and navigating bureaucratic hurdles that would be challenging alone.

How expensive is travel in Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan is moderately expensive by Central Asian standards. Budget travelers should expect minimum costs of about 80-100 USD per day (including guide services), while mid-range travelers will spend 150-200 USD daily. The requirement for guided tours is the main expense factor. Food and local transportation are relatively inexpensive, but accommodations meeting international standards command premium prices in Ashgabat (100+ USD per night for quality hotels).

What should I pack for Turkmenistan that I might not think of?

Based on my experiences, I recommend: a headlamp (for camping at Darvaza or occasional power outages), a water filter bottle (to avoid plastic waste), a sarong or large scarf (for women to cover hair at religious sites), wet wipes (useful in desert conditions), a power bank (for long transit days), and printed copies of your visa and hotel bookings (sometimes required at checkpoints).

Is it possible to combine Turkmenistan with other Central Asian countries?

Absolutely! Turkmenistan works well in combination with Uzbekistan, with convenient border crossings near Konye-Urgench/Khiva or between Mary and Bukhara. Many travelers follow the historic Silk Road route through multiple Central Asian countries. If time permits, I recommend at least 6-7 days in Turkmenistan as part of a broader regional itinerary.

What foods should I avoid in Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan’s food is generally safe, though take standard precautions with street food and uncooked items. In summer, dairy products from informal roadside stands might be risky. I personally avoid salads in very remote areas unless I’ve seen them prepared. That said, food safety standards in established restaurants are generally good, and I’ve rarely experienced issues in eight years of visits.

References

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